Gemotions

He’d bought the house for a pittance, convinced it held potential. It was the bargain of a lifetime. The walls were in need of some attention, so he’d been tearing off wallpaper in the master bedroom when he found it. A hidden panel, barely discernible, concealed behind layers of faded floral print.

Behind the panel was a small room, a miniature workshop. Tools hung neatly on the walls, a workbench covered in sawdust. It was as if someone had simply walked away, leaving their tools behind.

He picked up a hammer, its handle worn smooth with use. He felt energized, ready to start. The future felt brighter, filled with possibilities. He smiled, a genuine, unguarded smile that reached his eyes.